In a message dated 4/12/05 11:40:10 AM, hfinn@INGRATES.NET writes:

> >Is there are parts manual for the Vanagon (particularly the 84 Westy)?
> >Every other car that I have had, I was able to find a parts manual for,
> >but I can't even find a reference for the Westy.� I see people talking
> >about microfiche is that what is available?� If so has anyone ever tried
> >to put it into book or digital form?� Any leads would be great.
> 
> Heh. It already exists as the ETKA software. It's unfortunately a program
> intended only for VW dealerships, so it's not available by LEGAL means. It
> has been known to show up in various...ahem..."unofficial" places. I've
> noticed it floating around the P2P networks. I believe I've seen it while
> using eMule <www.emule-project.net>. Not that I'd ever recommend blatant
> copyright infringement in cases where the product is unavailable to the
> public anyway...;)
> 
> John Bange
> '90 Vanagon "Geldsauger"
> 
> 
While this is true as far as it goes, there are actually Parts manuals 
published by VW. They basically reproduce the illustrations that have become the 
ETKA basis. There are 4 different volumes available covering the vanagon. 79, 
80-85, 86-87 and 88-. I purchased mine from Q-B AutoCamp in Swindon in the UK. 
Cost me 7.95 pounds plus shipping in 1996. Probably out of print now, but many 
older copies must abound in used book or ebay sources. The old microfiches are 
also still around, but the indexing feature of the forbidden ETKA makes it 
quite useful.

Frank Grunthaner